UPSC Prelims 1999 · General Studies
Question 38: History and Culture
From the third century AD when the Hun invasion ended the Roman Empire, the Indian merchants relied more and more on the
AnswerThe answer is (c).
As Roman demand weakened and the western trade routes became less secure, Indian merchants turned increasingly to Southeast Asian trade, sailing to Burma, Malaya, Sumatra, Java and Cambodia, lands called Suvarnabhumi. This also carried Indian religion, art and culture to the region. Remember: after the Roman trade declined, the eastern sea route to Southeast Asia took its place.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Wrong. African trade was not the main new focus.
- (b) Wrong. Trade with western Europe was what had weakened.
- (c) Right. Indian merchants turned to Southeast Asia.
- (d) Wrong. Middle Eastern trade continued, but it was not the new focus.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 1999, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.